Brise House emerges from a clear yet complex challenge: to transform an existing residence, previously fragmented, with limited spatial integration and natural light, into a contemporary retreat capable of supporting a new scale of living. The proposal redefines the house as a place that is more open, more social, and deeply connected to both nature and the lifestyle of its residents.
Conceived as a second home for a family whose daily life revolves around sports, well-being, and social gatherings, the project significantly expands the original structure to a total of 1,200 sqm. Rather than starting from a blank slate, the design strategically incorporates and reinterprets much of the existing building, while introducing new volumes, an additional floor, and a completely reconfigured spatial logic.
Originally, the house lacked integration between spaces and offered limited accommodation, making it unsuitable for hosting guests. The transformation goes beyond programmatic expansion, it redefines the overall living experience. Natural light, previously scarce, becomes a central design driver, enhancing both spatial quality and comfort.
At the core of the project’s new identity is a continuous wooden brise made from ecological materials, enveloping the entire house. More than a shading device, it acts as both an architectural and landscape element, supporting the growth of vegetation and mediating the relationship between interior and exterior. Over time, the façade is designed to evolve, with greenery gradually taking over and reinforcing the intention of dissolving built boundaries.
This strategy is reinforced by additional sustainable solutions, including solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and the integration of green roofs in strategic areas. The material palette prioritizes natural, low-maintenance elements, such as reclaimed wood from the original house, emphasizing continuity while reducing environmental impact.
Internally, the house is organized around three main principles: social interaction, hospitality, and well-being.
The social areas are conceived as a fluid ecosystem, accommodating both collective and individual activities. The main living room, expanded veranda, gourmet area, and rooftop are seamlessly connected, creating a sequence of environments that shift in atmosphere throughout the day. At the same time, more introspective spaces, such as the massage room, ceramic studio, and saunas, offer moments of privacy and retreat.
The sports program, directly reflecting the residents’ profile, which includes a former Olympic athlete and a national swimming champion—is organically integrated into the architecture. A semi-Olympic swimming pool with a 25-meter lane and starting block coexists with a natural stone pool designed to evoke organic landscapes. The beach tennis court is seamlessly connected to the outdoor areas, with flooring designed to mimic the sensory qualities of sand, extending visually and tactually toward the pool and creating a subtle beach-like experience.
The private quarters include seven spacious suites, all designed with abundant natural light, cross ventilation, and private balconies. These spaces reinforce a sense of comfort and warmth, expressed through a “refined rustic” aesthetic, where natural materials, indirect lighting, and a neutral palette create a calm and inviting atmosphere.
Lighting plays a fundamental role in shaping the ambiance. Predominantly indirect, it is achieved through cove lighting, wall sconces, pathway lights, and decorative fixtures, creating intimate settings and enhancing textures and volumes throughout the evening.
From a construction standpoint, one of the project’s main challenges was integrating the expansion with the existing structure. The intervention required technical precision to support the new additions, including an extra floor, while preserving the integrity of the original building.
The result is a house that not only expands in scale but transforms in essence. Brise House proposes a new way of living, more integrated, more immersed in nature, and fully aligned with the rhythms and values of its residents, where architecture, landscape, and lifestyle operate as a single, continuous experience.
Fazenda da Grama.
Design by @twoarquitetura
Landscaping: @crisbermudezpaisagismo
